Friday

The 2010 FIFA World Cup kicks off today in South Africa and New York has "soccer, football, futbol, footy and footie" fever! Everywhere is a buzz about the games as people schedule meetings around the matches, have a few pints with breakfast, and walk around showing off their favorite team jersey and colors all around the city. Here are a few places we'll be enjoying the festivities. Please add your must-go-to choices too!

ESPN MATCH TRUCK Get a bite on the sidewalk but don't miss a kick! ESPN Match Truck in NYC area from June 11-29, broadcasting FIFA 2010 World Cup matches, live in HD, and serving global street food created by the team at Kogi BBQ. Twitter: @ESPNWCTruckNYC

THE SHOPS AT COLUMBUS CIRCLE TIME WARNER CENTER 2010 FIFA World Cup Exhibit. ESPN is proud to showcase its national team murals in support of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The artwork is inspired by the hand-painted style found in the streets and townships of South Africa. Each piece tells the story of one of the 32 teams that will compete in the World Cup. It was created by Cape Town, South Africa based Am I Collective and curated by Wieden+Kennedy NY. Location: Second Floor. Until June 27. Here's a few pics I took of the art.

PlayBeautifulNYC's pop-up match-viewing hub. Launching off-site on June 11th, PlayBeautiful will "pop-up" at local bars, restaurants, and soccer fields to build buzz for the soccer-industry's most celebrated event. Then, on June 20, PlayBeautiful pops-up a match watching arena at Openhouse Gallery (201 Mulberry Street) and remains open to the public for the duration of the tournament. It's FREE but get your tickets!

BRAAI & XIEXIE Watch the matches in South Africa style in Manhattan! This well known South African Restaurant and South African Wine Bar will be serving-up the World Cup and delicious traditional South African food and drinks. Ostrich Eggs Benedict and PeriPeri Mary... anyone?

Nevada Smiths "Where Football is Religion" Chairs have been removed and space emptied out in anticipation of the 100,000 spectators expected will watch matches throughout the World Cup at this East Village institution dubbed "The Church" by hardcore football fans; just don't call it soccer. (74 Third Avenue / Btwn 11th & 12th ST)The Breslin & The Ace Hotel World Cup + Pints + Full English Breakfast of fried egg, pork sausage, bacon, tomato, mushrooms (add a side of Beans in Pork Fat too). Afterall, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. The Ace Hotel will host a viewing party in an event room downstairs fit with projectors showing the matches to Stumptown coffee sipping New Yorkers. Cocktails, beer, and special Breslin menu items also available.